2008 MLS Season Review: Kansas City Wizards

byThe YankonDecember 8, 2008

Recap: The Wiz certainly had a bittersweet 2008. They managed to finish above .500 (11-10-9), but they couldn’t advance in the playoffs. Their big DP signing, Mr. Lopez, failed to pay off offensively. Overall, their poor attack marred their chances of competing, so they get a C for 2008.

Offense: Kansas City, as usual, could not get the attack going this year. They scored only 37 goals, better than only MLS recent expansion sides TFC and SJE. It’s never good when Jimmy Conrad is almost your leading scorer. The offense was very poor in 2008, so they get a D in offense.

Defense: Defense is KC’s forte and this year was no exception. They finished 5th in the league in goals allowed despite suffering some early injuries. Hartman was solid, finishing sixth in the league in save percentage at 72.2%. Plus, Conrad and Harrington are two of the best attacking defenders in MLS, so they get a B for D.

Needs: Well, Lopez needs to earn his paycheck first off. To do so, he will need to double his 2008 goals and assists totals in 2009. In addition, Josh Wolff needs to play like he did five years ago. I have no idea how he has seemingly lost his early promise. Most of all though, the Wiz just need to stay healthy.